Settle Down Tavern

This just took my number one burger spot in Madison. Settle Down Tavern on Pinckney Street in downtown Madison. First impression, this looked like a top contender, like one of the better burgers I have seen, and I was excited.

The Lowdown

• City: Madison, WI
• Address: 117 S Pinckney St, Madison, WI 53703
• Phone: (608) 442-6335
• Website: settledownmadison.com
• Kitchen resets 2:30 to 4 PM, bar stays open

What I ordered

I got the Jalapeno Hot Rod. That is two smashed patties, and while it is on the grill they smash jalapenos and onions together right into the patty, so you are getting all of that flavor in every bite. It comes on a potato bun with their special burger sauce. I also got their French fries and added their ghost seasoning, which is a powder with some ghost pepper in it. Burger and fries came to about $18.

My thoughts on the food

The fries are typical restaurant style fries. Not breaded, not shoestring, even though I love shoestring. Then the seasoning. Wait a second. That has a nice subtle kick to it. I asked for Cajun and they said we do not have Cajun but we have this, and I am glad they did. It is almost like a smoky spicy flavor mixed with a little bit of barbecue. Incredible.

Then the burger. This is actually our first true smash burger out of all of my burger reviews. Wow. Y'all, this might be number one. The patties are smashed extremely thin, like a real smash burger should be. Nothing irritates me more than when a place says they have smash burgers and it is a normal sized patty. Great amount of seasoning, that special sauce tastes really good, and I love how the jalapenos and onions are smashed right in. It gives you a perfect little hint of spiciness throughout each bite.

The vibe

This bar is really cool. Pet friendly, great vibes all around, a lot of places to sit, and a good patio.

The verdict

So far this is my number one, especially when it comes to the smaller burgers. It is simply really good, if that makes sense. Not over the top, but a little bit more than basic. I have a few others people swear by that I still have to try, so we will see if this changes, but as of now Settle Down Tavern on Pinckney Street has incredible burgers, incredible fries, and an incredible vibe. Go check it out if you have not.